What is the club’s history? – In the fall of 2011 a group of paddlers from Blind Bay, Sorrento and the North Shore decided to form a Dragon Boat Society in the Blind Bay area. With financial support from the Blind Bay Village Grocer, a used Dragon Boat was purchased and the first season of paddling got underway in 2012. Since our beginning, we’ve paddled several times each week and, for the more competitive Society members, participated in various Dragon Boat festivals around the province, including the 55+ BC Summer Games. Over the years we’ve trained coaches, drummers and steers, added a preseason fitness program, and implemented various safety protocols.
It is a social activity, you ask? – Absolutely, especially in the Blind Bay community! Many close friendships have developed because of the common bonds created when a group of people climb into a Dragon Boat and paddle to reach a team goal.
Is it a good, rounded form of exercise? – You bet it is. Upper body strength, developed core muscles, and a good strong leg drive are all proponents of an effective Dragon Boat paddle stroke. As one member stated, “I have been seriously exercising for more than a half-century, and Dragon Boating provides the best upper body workout I’ve ever had”.
What if I am not as strong now as I’d like to be? Will I still be able to bring something to the boat? – Again, absolutely! Each boat goes out with a coach, who provides guidance in paddling technique. Over a very short period of time, you will develop proper techniques and your overall fitness level will improve.
Do I need any equipment to join the Dragon Boat Society? – We have paddles and life jackets for members to use. As you learn to paddle, you may eventually wish to purchase your own equipment.
Are there different levels of paddling that I can choose from? – Yes – there is a recreational team and if there is sufficient interest, we will add a festival team. A festival team would require additional preparation through extra practices and training exercises that strengthen your endurance level and paddling skills. Attending Dragon Boat festivals are optional.
